Preparing for Sacrament of Matrimony

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."1 Corinthians 13:4-5

﻿As you prepare to celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony, the Pastoral staff of Santa Clara Parish shares in your joy. We are providing this information to assist you with the many details of preparing you for the worthy reception of the Sacrament of Matrimony, so that the two you may enjoy a prayerful celebration that reflects the Christian values we hold as Catholics. If you are interested about the Sacrament of Matrimony, please call our office to make an appointment with our priests; you may check if your desired date is available in the next column. Just below, you will basic information regarding the process (appointments) to receive the Sacrament of Marriage: ​

Process

Meeting 1

Meeting 2

Meeting 3

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THE THREE STEP PROCESS Please make you First Wedding Appointment by calling our office or on line. The process consist in three meetings to go over the guidelines and requirements for the Sacrament of Marriage.

FIRST APPOINTMENT:Orientation day.On this day the guidelines and requirements to receive the Sacrament of Matrimony will be explained to you. You will be asked to bring next time your certificates of Baptism (updated), First communion, Confirmation. Copy of your ID’s will be needed. FOCCUS assessment link will be sent to you to be completed within 10 days. If no impediments, you may reserve the wedding date with a $200 non-refundable deposit. The date must be booked at least six-months in advance.

SECOND APPOINTMENT:Documents and WitnessesTurn-in Certificates of Baptism (updated copy), First Communion and Confirmation. Bring two witnesses of each to state freedom to marry. Couple will take pre-nuptial inventory. Review of FOCCUS results. Receive information for Catholic Marriage Preparation Retreat (Engaged or Convalidation); there is an additional cost for this retreat. Wedding date will be reconfirmed. Couple will be reminded about the “marriage license” and to have their Liturgy planning form completed by the third/last appointment. Rehearsal date and time will be given.This meeting is usually 30 days after your first appointment.

THIRD/FINAL APPOINTMENT:Nothing pendingCouple must bring Marriage License, proof of Catholic Marriage Retreat and selection of Bible Readings (Liturgy Planning Form). Couple will be reminded about celebrating the Sacrament of Confession. The ceremony must be paid off by this time and nothing should be pending.

is my date available? (CALENDAR)

GUIDELINES & REQUIREMENTS

LITURGY PLANNING - READINGS - MUSIC

LIT. FORM

READINGS

MUSIC

REHEARSAL

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Please click on image to see the"LITURGY PLANNING FORM"(Please submit this form by the last appointment)

Liturgical Music is already selected for this celebration. Questions or requests? Please contact our music director.

most common questions

In what language can the Mass be celebrated?Spanish, English, and/or Bilingual.

Can a priest friend of the family celebrate the Mass?Yes. However, the family should consider giving him a donation for his services. The parish is committed to supply our own priests. If the priest is not from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, he must bring a "Celebrat" letter from his bishop.

Who many people can walk the aisle (size of Wedding party?7 Couples may walk the aisle with you plus your parents.

Can children be part of the Wedding party?Yes. Up to four children 4 years old and up.

Can we write our our vows?No. We follow the Catholic Rite of Matrimony.